The
following is a transcript of a speech by Elizabeth
Ann "Libby" Bruce at the Democratic National Convention.
Nine
weeks ago today, on the Fourth of July, my daughter Ruby was born.
Ruby
is a perfect, healthy little girl, and because I have endometriosis, I feel
particularly lucky to have her. When I was 18, I began experiencing severe
pelvic and abdominal pain. I went to so many doctors, but nobody had any
answers. Several doctors outright dismissed me, treating my pain as the product
of a dumb kid's dramatic imagination.
Finally
I went to Planned Parenthood. They listened to me as no one else had. They
answered my questions. A caring nurse practitioner told me she thought I had
endometriosis. She connected me with an excellent, respectful surgeon who
removed the excess endometrial growth in my pelvis.
Finally
I got better. Twelve years later, I am still grateful for the excellent,
affordable, respectful care I received from Planned Parenthood. I am especially
grateful because endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility. Without
Planned Parenthood, my pain would have continued, and I might not have my
daughter today.
When
Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan make threats about "getting rid" of Planned
Parenthood funding, it's clear that they haven't given a thought to women like
me, women with limited resources who are sick and scared. They haven't thought
about planned and wanted babies like Ruby who are able to be here only because
their mothers received the health care they needed.
President
Obama understands, and he cares. And that's why I'm here. I'm here tonight for
my daughter, to stand up for her, so that when she grows up, Planned Parenthood
will be there for her too.
